How to Use Reverse Image Search to Check Puppy Adverts (Step-by-Step Guide)

Quick & Simple Checklist: How to Reverse Image Search Puppy Photos

This step-by-step checklist is written for anyone, even if you're not confident with technology.

• 1. Get the photo you want to check
  Open the advert and press-and-hold the puppy photo on your phone (or right-click on a computer). Choose “Save Image” or “Download Image”. If you can't download it, take a screenshot instead.
• 2. Go to Google Images
  On a computer, visit https://images.google.com. On the right of the search bar, click the small camera icon (Search by Image).
• 3. Upload the puppy photo
  Click “Upload a file” and choose the picture you saved. Google will then scan the internet to see where else that exact photo appears.
• 4. Using your phone? Use Google Lens instead
  Open the photo in your phone’s gallery. Tap the Google Lens icon (a small square camera symbol). If you can’t see it, choose “Search with Lens” when you press-and-hold the image in your browser.
• 5. Look at the results carefully
  If Google shows the same puppy photo on:
  • other adverts
  • old listings from years ago
  • foreign websites
  • multiple locations across the UK
  …then the image is very likely stolen and the advert is unsafe.
• 6. Double-check with TinEye (optional but helpful)
  Visit https://tineye.com and upload the photo again. TinEye sometimes finds matches Google misses.
• 7. What it means if the photo appears elsewhere
  If the same image is being used by different sellers, in different areas, or for different breeds, it’s almost always a scam. Walk away immediately.
• 8. What if the image doesn’t appear anywhere?
  That’s good, but not a guarantee. Still make sure you:
  • see the puppy with its mum in person
  • visit the breeder’s home
  • check the microchip and paperwork
  • never agree to couriers or doorstep drop-offs
  Reverse image search is just one part of staying safe.
• 9. Trust your instincts
  If the results seem strange or something feels wrong, don’t continue with the sale. Genuine breeders are open, transparent, and never rush you.

If you ever suspect that an advert on MyPetConnect may be a scam, please use the “Think this advert is inappropriate? Report it here” link located directly under the advert description. Reporting suspicious listings helps us act quickly and keeps the community safe.